Haibun: Sanctuary

The river bank and leafless trees are heavy with snow. Mallards, swans and cygnets mingle in the shallows. The sun is higher in the sky, her glow a little warmer. For nine months, this part of the river has been the cygnets’ home, their sanctuary. First there were seven. One of them, bright and brave, flew the nest nine weeks ago. Soon the remaining six will spread their wings to begin their own adventure.

These are the last images I have from the remaining cygnets. They were chased away by their parents the following day and encouraged to make their own way in the world. It’s been a joy watching them hatch, grow and develop. We wish them all a healthy and happy long life in the Highlands.

You can read about the first cygnet leaving the nest in last year’s post Into the World.

So happy the cygnets have had such a wonderful place to grow, healthy and about to make their own way, on the other hand it’s sad when they’re ready to leave. I hope they’ll soon have their own families to love and care for 💖 Beautiful photos and words, Xenia 🦢xxx

Thank you so much for your kind words dear Cathy 💜 I wish them well and hope they will continue the family trait of giving their own offspring such a loving start in life. Hope you are having a great day and much love to you and Finn from all of us here 🤗💖🐕 xxx